Intelligent, powerful and very accessible
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This book can be safely recommended to anyone who enjoys reading intelligent, articulate and emotionally powerful fiction. Sensitively handled, non-judgemental descriptions of Chinese culture bring credibility to the story-line. Similarities in style to Ann Michaels and Jane Hamilton, both of whom I couldn't recommend strongly enoough.
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Remarkable account of a walk on the wild side in China
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This is an enjoyable account of a clash of cultures and a discovery of (gay) sexuality. It's setting in China and lesbian theme reminded me of another book I read lately, "White Snake and Other Stories" by Geling Yan, who is of the same generation as this author. This is another place where China is starting to exit the closet, much to its own surprise.
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the story of Zebra Wong
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Would you be willing to devote eight years of work in a labor camp for mere political recognition? Faced with this question, the average Jane Doe or American would answer no. However, Zebra Wong jumped at the opportunity. We can assume that Zebra is no Jane Doe neither is she American. In fact, Zebra Wong is the absolute opposite. Under influence of the Communist Party, Zebra Wong and her family sacrificed their lives to glorify their "god," Mao Zedong. Years later, Mao's plans for China had failed. The people of China asked themselves why, when they had worked so hard, were suddenly so miserable? Zebra lost her faith in Mao and decided to end her work. Unfortunately, Zebra was not permitted to leave the labor camp. Can you imagine "slaving" for eight years against your own will? For Zebra, she dreaded every moment. "My education from age seven to eighteen was spent learning to be an honest Communist." Not up till the age of twenty-nine did Zebra enroll in a special English program. At school, an American teaches English to Zebra and her Chinese classmates. Her name is Katherine. "Like an evening star, she appeared quietly in our lives, in complete harmony, and before we realized it, she was installed above our heads" is how author Anchee Min described Katherine. Her existence was overwhelming, bringing 'a story of the western world' with her. In return, Zebra and her classmates exchange their tales with Katherine. Katherine became Zebra's confidant. Through time, Zebra learned to repress her past. A friendship begins; Zebra discovers a world of acceptance despite the unexpected consequences and misfortunes.
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Stark Realism
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This book captures the Chinese view of weterners. It is one of the few books that I have started and finished in one sitting. Its prose captures the rhythms and thought patterns that are so prevalent in Chinese culture (the intricate interpersonal politics of love in modern China). I have known characters that could have acted as stand ins for ALL of the characters in the book. Although it is a sad story, it is one that is painfully close to reality and anyone who has lived for many years in China could easily mistake the book for non-fiction. This book is a fascinating look into the heart and soul of a/some/many Chinese women.
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Breathtaking emotions, a brilliant piece of work
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Never have I been so captured by a book as Katherine. The love, passion, desperation, it is not just words on a page. Anchee Min makes you part of the emotions of the characters.
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